Rep. Fairbairn secured key amendment to defend seasonal, part-time workers

State Rep. Parker Fairbairn on Thursday voted in support of legislation to protect the livelihoods of tipped-wage workers and small businesses. House Bills 4001 and 4002 passed the House Select Committee on Protecting Michigan Employees and Small Businesses with near unanimous, bipartisan support.

“It’s pretty great to say that on my first committee, considering my first set of bills, we were able to get something done that garnered near-unanimous, bipartisan support,” said Fairbairn, R-Harbor Springs. “This week, we heard from dozens of passionate servers, EMS providers, small business owners, and others, all of whom shared the dire consequences they face if the Legislature does not act with the utmost urgency. What’s played out in committee this week should give everyone hope that bipartisan solutions to this crisis are possible in the very near future. If our committee of Republicans and Democrats can all get on the same page, hopefully that’s a sign that an agreement with the Senate and governor is not too far off.”

Legislative action is needed to address the issue after a Michigan Supreme Court decision from last summer negated a previous Republican fix to these unrealistic mandates on small businesses regarding wages and sick leave while phasing out the tip credit, which provides a key source of income for workers. Without legislative intervention, the changes will go into effect Feb. 21.

Rep. Fairbairn offered an amendment to HB 4001 that would ensure small businesses can continue offering employment opportunities to high school students and other young people.

“Nearly everyone has a memory of their first high school job. Whether it’s working drive-thru at a fast-food place or, for me, it was at a pro shop at a local golf course; for most young people, that job is the first real exposure to working in a professional setting,” Fairbairn said. “My amendment ensures that our small business owners will continue to connect young people with meaningful employment opportunities that will help shape their working lives.”

The bills now move to the full House for further consideration.

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